Local Councillor News with Eleanor Sanders (Independent Councillor for Rhiwbina and Pantmawr)

So here we are at the end of the five year term of Cardiff Council. Plans are now taking shape for the Local Elections on Thursday 4th May that will elect another 75 councillors to represent all the wards across our city.

In my previous Rhiwbina Living articles, I told you of my desire to again be one of the three Councillors that represents our community. You elected me in 2012 as an Independent Councillor to represent Rhiwbina and Pantmawr where I polled 23% of the votes cast. I have remained an Independent Councillor since then and I am seeking re-election in May, again as an Independent candidate. Over the past five years, it has been a privilege to help and support so many across Rhiwbina with a variety of issues, suggestions or just friendly conversations. I’ve got to know so many of you, particularly now I have taken up running around Rhiwbina saying good morning to many of you as I run past!

As a resident my knowledge and experience of Rhiwbina is gained from over 20 years living here, raising my children through Llanishen Fach Primary School before finishing their education at Whitchurch High School, as well as a school governor and obviously serving as your local councillor.

There are many highlights from the past few years. Taking on the Council and winning, when they threatened to pull out of Rhiwbina library, and recognising the strength of feeling as I chaired the meeting with over 350 residents (and hundreds more outside unable to get a seat inside ) before agreeing to hold a Community Poll opposing the closure.

We won a stay of execution for our library and if elected, I commit to once again fight to keep this vital resource open for all ages across our community. Visiting the library seeing all the community groups that meet regularly convinces me it is essential it stays open as a council led library.

As governor at Llanishen Fach school I have been very pleased to see the amazing work carried out by all staff members holding them to account through my work on the Standards Committee. In 2015, I was appointment as ‘Wellbeing Governor’ where I am able to use my skills and experience from my previous nursing career to be the ‘listening ear’ to all involved in the school.

I chair the organising committee Rhiwbina Village Events for both the summer and winter festivals. These have grown in both numbers attending as well as activities we provide at each event. It also gives so many charities the opportunity to showcase their work. To help these organisations, I have recently launched the Rhiwbina Community Network seeking to bring together all the many organisations, events and resources.

If elected on May 4th,

• I commit to continue to provide that independent voice for residents, free from any political party politics.
• I will work hard to keep our library open,
• Work across Rhiwbina with partners to reduce isolation and loneliness felt by many older residents